Really surprised no 6-speed is offered with the V6 (but you can with the Accord), TSX was my last car and absolutely loved the transmission.

For real, I found that very surprising also. When I heard about this, I was starting to think that Acura was getting their stuff together, but there they go dropping the ball again. If not a manual option, at least have the six speed autos offered in most modern cars today.

In general, you get better fuel economy because the gearing can be better matched to the conditions the engine is being forced to work under as you accelerate, decelerate, etc. Smoothness can also be improved since the switches from one gear ratio to the next are smaller.

The cost is added complexity in the transmission design, which equals higher cost ($) and potentially mechanical problems as compared to a simpler, fewer-gear design.

Its not bragging rights. Its called "advance" which is ironically Acura's tagline, which should be called "reverse". Take the Lexus 8 speed for example, it not only offers better gearing for not only better performance but also better MPG. It also has LESS parts and WEIGHT than the 6 speed. For companies truely interested in engineering and taking things to the next level, it is expected. An ancient 5 speed is laughable. You do realize Buick, Ford, Hyundai, Chevrolet, etc etc all have 6 speed autos. I guess maybe they are scared to build one since they can barely build a 5 speed? I have no idea.

BMW and Audi will also have 8 speeds now. Benz and Infiniti have 7 speeds. There is SMG offered, dual clutches, all sorts of advancements in transmissions, a VITAL part of the car, especially anything that will be sold or advertised as "sporty". Lexus has 8 speeds, 6 speeds and CVT. Their 8 speed in the IS-F was significantly redesigned to become sportier and shift nearly as fast as a Ferrari.

Acura would rather trick you with a cute NAV system that can tell you if the red light is on at Krispy Kreme instead of investing in the actual car.

Agreed, 6/7/8 speed modern auto trannys enhance performance, mileage, driveability, much more than just a marketing ploy. In terms of driving pleasure, the close ratios afforded by multispeed trannys can be felt by the experienced driver.

Agreed, 6/7/8 speed modern auto trannys enhance performance, mileage, driveability, much more than just a marketing ploy. In terms of driving pleasure, the close ratios afforded by multispeed trannys can be felt by the experienced driver.

btw, I assume Acura will undercut IS350 pricing with this V6 TSX.

TSX undercuts everyone b/c its a pre entry level car, not IS/3/C etc competition. I'm assuming with the V-6 pricing will be around 32k.

RDX motor can't fit b/c of intercooler on top of the engine. Unless you want a TSX with a hood scoop If anyone has seen the TSX engine bay, there is TONS of space inside, the V-6 will fit with no issues. Though I wonder how even more front heavy this car will be.